I know someone who is convinced that Cinema Village has the most uncomfortable seats in Manhattan, and he's probably right. With no frills at all, this place is characterized by a rugged, camping-in-the-wintertime ambiance. Scores extra points on my scale for its doggedly non-mainstream appeal. C-.(Frazer)

UPDATE: Cinema Village has undergone a renovation that resulted in the addition of two screens, for a total of three. I've only been downstairs, but I suppose it's something of an improvement overall. The screen is smaller, of course, but the projection is sharp and generally trouble-free. Sound seems to be adequate Dolby Stereo (not as harsh as the Angelika, probably because it doesn't have to be turned up as loud). Seats are a little better. I'll probably upgrade this to a C, but I'll keep the jury out until I visit one of the upstairs auditoriums. 11/25/99